Swayambhunath Temple Tourism

Type of destination: Religious Site

Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient religious complex perched atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Buddhists and Hindus. The stupa at Swayambhunath is one of the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises. It is said to have been founded about 1,500 years ago, and its stupa is a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of gilt copper. Painted on the four sides of the spire base are the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, watching in the four cardinal directions. The complex also includes a variety of shrines and temples, including a Tibetan monastery, a museum, and a library. The site is atop a hill and offers panoramic views of Kathmandu. Its architecture is a mix of Nepali pagoda, stupa, and vihara design reflecting a blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Devotees visit the temple to perform religious rituals, meditate, and pay homage to the deities.

Top 5 Reviews on Swayambhunath Temple

Hudsonmccraw

Wrote on 22nd Jun, 2024

One of the best places to visit in Nepal.

The temple has monkeys running about, hence the nickname “Monkey Temple”. But the shrines and other structures there were spectacular in appearance. Places like this, preserves Nepal’s rich histor..

margaretw818

Wrote on 21st Jun, 2024

Great panoramic views

You get a good view across Kathmandu from this Buddhist stupa built on top of a high hill. There are quite a few steps but it is worth the climb. This site is revered by both the Buddhist and Hindus a..

715himala

Wrote on 15th Jun, 2024

Swayambhunath, or the Monkey Temple,

Beautiful place to visit in Kathmandu, nepal.Swayambhunath, or the Monkey Temple, is a historic Buddhist stupa atop a hill in Kathmandu, Nepal. It's rich history and spiritual ambiance make it a must ..

uddabba

Wrote on 2nd May, 2024

"Swayambhunath: A Journey of Beauty, Playfulness, and Spiritual Connection in 2023"

My own visit to Swayambhunath in 2023 was a memorable experience shared with friends, as we marveled at the beauty of the architecture, observed the playful monkeys, and took in the majestic views of ..